RT Journal
A1 Sax HC
T1 Questioning the economics of bariatric surgery: Comment on “health expenditures among high-risk patients after gastric bypass and matched controls”
JF Archives of Surgery
JO Archives of Surgery
YR 2012
FD July 1
VO 147
IS 7
SP 640
OP 641
DO 10.1001/archsurg.2012.1021
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/archsurg.2012.1021
AB 
Surgeons use risk-benefit analysis in our decisions to operate on specific patients. Rarely do we consider the economic implication, instead using the assumption that an individual would want enhanced quantity or quality of life, regardless of cost. This decision-making process is further supported by a separation of those who receive the benefit and those who pay the bill. However, when surgeons want to justify a new procedure or piece of equipment, economic benefit is often argued. Those contemplating paying for the procedure will balance expense with the improvement of quantity or quality of life for the insured.